Recently, I’ve been reminiscing about projects from over 10 years ago with a mix of emotions – surprise, nostalgia, and fun. One project that I completely forgot about resurfaced when I stumbled upon it online, leading me to reconnect with my team and reminisce about the creative process. Let me take you through it.
The project involved repurposing a vintage store display shelving unit in a playroom for my client, the talented producer Rachna Fruchbom. The challenge was to make the cubbies functional and visually appealing without breaking the budget. With Rachna’s trust and our creative freedom, my collaborator Orlando and I embarked on a design journey.
Thinking Outside the Box with Canning Jars
Struggling to find suitable items to fill the cubbies, we landed on painting mason jars as a cost-effective and visually pleasing solution. We meticulously measured each cubby, calculated the required jar sizes, and painted them in various colors to create an ombre effect.
The Creative Process in Action
The process of painting the jars and arranging them on the shelving unit was a labor of love. The ombre look we achieved added a playful touch to the playroom, sparking conversations and enhancing the space’s visual appeal.
Reflecting on the Project
While the mason jar art wall may seem gimmicky in hindsight, it served its purpose of adding color and interest to the space. The project’s cost and time investment were significant, highlighting the complexities of DIY projects in a professional design setting.
Additionally, we didn’t stop at the mason jars – we also repurposed vintage frames to display kid art, adding another layer of creativity to the playroom. The project was a collaborative effort with my design assistant Orlando, and despite the challenges, we had a blast bringing it to life.
Looking back, the canning jar art installation wall remains a unique and memorable project from 2012. It’s a testament to creative problem-solving and thinking outside the box, even if the practicality and cost implications were significant. The project may not be replicated today, but it stands as a reminder of the fun and creativity that fueled our design process.
As I reflect on this project, I invite you to share your ideas on how you would approach a similar design challenge. Creativity knows no bounds, and I’m always curious to hear fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Let the conversation begin!
*Photos by Bethany Nauert